The transformation of James Street Plaza on Hamilton’s Beaumont Street is nearly complete after three months of construction.
Janice Musumeci from Hamilton Business Association Inc said businesses along Beaumont Street were looking forward to the plaza opening and becoming a hub for the community.
“We’re already exploring ideas for how we can activate James Street Plaza for the whole community like live music spots and regular markets. It will be an inclusive and versatile space,” Musumeci said.
“Hamilton is already seeing great business growth, so this will be a great drawcard to bring people back to supporting local businesses.”
Councillor Carol Duncan said the upgrade was a collaboration with the community and local businesses.
“Through our ongoing conversations with business owners, we heard lots of ideas for improving this space and how it could be better utilised for the community,” Cr Duncan said.
“It is especially exciting to see the lighting display coming together, with installation under way this week.”
In June, the University of Newcastle’s Future Art, Science & Technology Lab (FASTLab) put forward three lighting designs that each celebrated a different aspect of Hamilton’s history.
Community members were asked to vote on a favourite design. The “Microcosmic Mosaic” proved to be the community favourite.
This lighting design was developed into a full-length animation that will light up the plaza.
Along with the lighting display, Hamilton’s history is also reflected in the renewed plaza’s artworks informed by local historian and author of Hidden Hamilton, Ruth Cotton.
Final works will continue to take place over the next few weeks, including the final pavers being laid and the addition of street furniture, landscaping and artwork.
The community will be able to access the new and improved James Street Plaza next month.
Information source: Media release, July 19, City of Newcastle